2011 Edinburgh Fringe
Mike Newall review
In explaining the eponymous "get better box", Mancunian comedian Mike Newall marks himself out as a self-proclaimed idiot. Dealing with everything from Thai Street Sellers and their special services to scooter men, Newall is also keen to make it clear that he's not the biggest idiot that he knows and also that he's a lucky man.
Some of Newall's jokes hit the spot straight away. Some owing to snappy delivery and a well-placed aside, and some owe more to their simplicity and clean-cut humour than anything else.
Mike Newall is a very good comic, make no mistake, and his observations on aspects of life and relationships are astute and well thought through. Unfortunately though, there are moments when it easier to imagine that you're hearing an anecdote recanted over a pint in the pub than watching a stand-up show.
At one point Mike makes reference to a review which mentions his hair more than his humour (it's very nice, by the way. Glossy. Well-kempt.) and certain tangential elements of the show make it feel quite disjointed. Much like this paragraph.
Newall's show is a tale of people coming together, sharing the joy of life and celebrating all the funny little things that make us all better people in the long run.
Mike Newall's 'Get Better Box' listing
